FOX 21 News, KQDS-DT

FLOODWOOD, Minn. - The Retreat in Floodwood may be a nine hole golf course, but the staff have lofty goals, like making it the best 9-hole course around.
Unlike other nine hole tracks, The Retreat isn't made up solely of par 3's.
"It's a challenging course, par 36," said course owner Dan Donofrio. "You have to hit over the pond, you have to hit over the creek.  You can bring out the big woods.  It's definitely not just a par 3 course."
Golfers are often surprised by how challenging The Retreat can be.
"People might come here and expect to get a really good score, but that's usually not the case," said Donofrio.
At The Retreat, the hole to see is number five.
"It's a dog leg, you don't know the pond is right there," adds Clubhuouse Manager Sue Heine.  "You can go over the trees, try to hit the green, otherwise you go and avoid the water."
Despite the recent severe weather, the course was nearly unaffected. A washed out bridge on No. 6 was the most significant damage. and for the most part, the course is in great condition and ready to play, thanks to the local community.
"The monday after the flood, 14 people from floodwood came out here and volunteered their time," said Donofrio.
Golfers have noticed their efforts.
"The roughs are a little long, but not bad," said Art LaFave of Cloquet.  "The fairways are nice, greens are really good considering the rain we had."
Golfers looking to play a quick nine holes should check out The Retreat, and if you want to play 18, you can play it twice.